ESU statement on Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict

Since the start of the conflict over Artsakh, Nagorno-Karabakh, we are following the ongoing hostilities between Armenian and Azeri forces in Artsakh with great concern. The war has brought many civilian casualties and the regional and international powers and community have stayed too cautious in the matter.

While the world lives through so many difficulties in these challenging times of pandemic, political turmoil in the Middle East and new developments in the Caucasus add new and negative dimensions to international politics.

While the international community hesitates and is unwilling to stop aggression from Azeri forces, third countries are fueling the conflict by providing military support and sending military support and forces to Azerbaijan. Especially Turkey’s interference deepens the Caucasian conflict by transporting jihadists from Syria. This has been documented by various media outlets. Moreover, the aggressive statements and warmongering position of Turkish officials and authorities also threaten the existence of Armenian and other Christian peoples in Turkey.

While the Russian-brokered cease-fire is constantly violated, the hostilities continue and have reached residential areas. The violence against Armenians brings back memories and creates fears of past Tragedy.

The Minsk Group and the international community have the moral responsibility to call for all parties to abide by the ceasefire. In addition, the Minsk Group and the international community have the moral duty to bring about a sustainable and enduring peace process among the two countries and respect the will of the people of Artsakh.